A. Powers And Duties, Generally: The building inspector is hereby authorized and directed to enforce all the provisions of this chapter and of the building codes heretofore mentioned. For such purposes:
1. The building inspector shall have the powers of a law enforcement officer;
2. The building inspector shall have the power to render interpretations of this chapter and to adopt and enforce rules and supplemental regulations in order to enforce and clarify the application of its provisions. Such interpretations, rules and regulations shall be in conformance with the intent and purpose of this chapter. (1995 Code § 15-3-1)
B. Right Of Entry: When it is necessary to make an inspection to enforce the provisions of this chapter, or when the building inspector has reasonable cause to believe that there exists in a building or upon a premises a condition which is contrary to or in violation of this chapter which makes the building or premises unsafe, dangerous or hazardous, the building inspector may enter the building or premises at reasonable times to inspect or to perform the duties imposed by this chapter; provided, that if such building or premises be occupied, that credentials be presented to the occupant and entry requested. If such building or premises be unoccupied, the building inspector shall first make a reasonable effort to locate the owner or other persons having charge or control of the building or premises and request entry. If entry is refused, the building inspector shall have recourse to the remedies provided by law to secure entry. (1995 Code § 15-3-2)
C. Nonliability: The building inspector charged with the enforcement of this chapter, acting in good faith and without malice in the discharge of the duties required by this chapter or other pertinent law or ordinance, shall not thereby be rendered personally liable for damages that may accrue to persons or property as a result of an act or by reason of an act or omission in the discharge of such duties. (1995 Code § 15-3-3)